How to Put Up a Privacy Fence

A privacy fence will not only make for good neighbors, it allows you to create an area of solitude in your backyard or garden. You have a choice of selecting fencing material that is maintenance free. Vinyl and composite fencing is more expensive than treated wood fencing, but it lasts longer and requires no upkeep.

Things You'll Need

• Post Hole Digger Cement Mix Fence Posts Level Wooden Stakes Fence Rail Brackets Privacy Fence Panels Screws and Screw Driver

Instructions

1. Mark the spots for your privacy fence posts with wooden stakes. Typical privacy fence panels are 6 feet tall by 6 feet wide, so place a post every 6 feet. For example, if you are building a 30-ft long fence, you will need six posts and five panels. Find standard-sized fencing materials at your local home improvement store. If your panels are custom, place the posts to match the width of your panels. Dig holes for the fence posts with the post hole digger. A depth of 18 to 24 inches is typical, but check your local building codes for the recommended depth for your location.

2. Place the post in the hole and secure it to the ground with wooden stakes, making sure it is level. Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer's directions and pour it into the hole until it is almost flush with the top of the ground. Check the level of your posts and adjust as needed before the concrete dries. Let the concrete dry.

3. Drill pilot holes in the posts and the panels where you will be placing the screws. Attach the rail brackets to the posts where your fence panels will hang. Composite and vinyl fence panels may use different types of screws, so follow the manufacturer's instructions.

4. Slide the fence panels into the rail brackets and secure the panels to the hangers with screws. Begin with the end panels or corner panels, and then fill in the fence panels in the middle.

5. Seal your wooden privacy fence with wood sealer. Treated wood is protected from insects and mildew, but you will need to maintain your wood fence with sealer annually to protect against moisture.

Tips & Warnings

• Add decorative tops to vinyl fence posts with vinyl adhesive.

• Wear protective gear when working with tools.

Resources

• Privacy Fence Panels at Home Depot